Steps on Dealing with Someone with Bipolar Disorder

Family is one of the best things a person could have. It is something that cannot be bought and at the same time, it is something that you will treasure for the rest of your life. A family will always be there, that is why when a member of the family is struggling over something, as a family, you all must support him or her.

Just like when a member of the family is suffering from a mental illness called bipolar disorder. It can be extremely difficult to deal with, so patience, an open mind, and compassion are what the entire family must have. However, not a lot of know what kind of disorder that is, so here are a couple of things you must do to help out in the situation

STEP 1 – Educate Yourself About Bipolar Disorder

If you have a member of the family who is suffering from bipolar disorder, then it is the duty of every member of the family to become aware of what they are dealing with, as well as the things that they need to do and the things that they shouldn’t do.

WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER?

Bipolar disorder is actually also known as manic depression, this is where a person suddenly changes mood and behavior. It is actually much more than being in a good or a bad mood, the cycles of the bipolar disorder can actually last for days, weeks, or even months. Unlike your ordinary mood swings, a person with bipolar disorder tend to change moods intensely and they most likely would interfere with the person’s ability to function normally.

A person with bipolar disorder can make big decisions as if it’s nothing, like quitting their job. During episodes, they would most likely feel hopeless, self-loathing, and lonely. Experts still haven’t found an accurate answer as to what exactly causes bipolar disorder, but some say it may be hereditary. Teenagers or young adults are prone to having bipolar disorder because their minds are still getting ready for the adult world, and it can be very intimidating and scary, but with proper treatment, they could definitely overcome it, especially with a family to lean on.

But how would you exactly know if a family member is suffering from bipolar disorder? Here are signs and symptoms to look out for.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• The person tends to be unusually jumpy or wired
• The person tends to be a little too energetic than usual
• The person doesn’t feel the need to sleep or they would get a few hours of sleep but they will already feel well-rested
• The person tends to constantly brag and becomes selfish
• The person tends to get distracted and couldn’t focus and couldn’t listen attentively
• The person tends to make decisions without actually thinking, like going on a shopping spree, making foolish investments and more

These are just a couple of things that you might notice, and if they are indeed showing signs, maybe it is best to convince them to seek professional help. If they are indeed diagnosed with bipolar depression, here are a couple of things that you can do to help them with it.

STEP 2 – HAVE AN OPEN MIND

Th last thing a bipolar person needs is someone who would judge them because of their behavior. Keep in mind that a bipolar person doesn’t intentionally brag or be selfish, so even if it may be appealing to you, just remember that they are suffering from a disorder, and you must understand that completely or else you might make the situation worse. What you can do is simply talk to him or her when they’re calm and is not having a mania. Make sure that they’re completely willing and comfortable to talk, the best approach is to simply ask how they’re doing and how they’re feeling. Avoid saying things that could trigger them.

STEP 3 – SUPPORT THEM

Another great way to deal with a family member with a bipolar disorder is to simply get yourself involved and participate in their psychotherapy when you can, it can really be such a helpful resource. Speak with their doctor to see if how they are doing and if there is any progress or are they getting worse. If your loved one is not receiving any treatment, it is best to convince them to do it as advised by the American Psychological Association, but keep in mind that you shouldn’t force them because there is a tendency that this can scare his or her off and it would just affect your relationship.